St. Louis, Missouri band Mustardfish is a concept project based on the notion that pre-existing music, when explored in a different light than its original incarnation, can be virtually considerable as new music.

Founded by Rob Severson and Ron Warner in early May 2001, Mustardfish began on what can basically be considered a whim. Severson, in practicing a few songs at Warner's on-campus apartment in Webster Groves, Missouri, for an on-campus coffee shop open mic gig he was to play that night, was asked by Warner if he'd like some accompaniment, at least for one of the two or three covers Severson was planning on playing. After practicing together for a little while, it was decided, and Warner joined Severson on stage as Mustardfish, named at the last minute by Severson for the brisling sardines in mustard sauce that the two were so fond of eating (and are now fond of distributing at shows†heads up!).